Weight Loss Surgery - Vertical Gastrectomy with Duodenal Switch (DS)

Vertical Gastrectomy with Duodenal Switch (DS)

Long vertical pouch (about 4-5 oz or 120-150cc). The duodenum (first portion of the small intestine) is attached to the last 6 feet of small intestine, where food and digestive juices are rejoined after 12 feet. Moderate restriction of volume of food that can eaten. Provides moderate malabsorption of fat, which can cause diarrhea and bloating.

Patients can expect to lose 75% - 80% of excess weight. Some patients can lose too much weight. More risk of nutritional deviancies than with the RnY.

Patients must eat 3 meals a day. Patients must strictly adhere to protein and vitamin supplements to avoid deficiencies. (Multivitamins, ADEK vitamins, Calcium and Iron for menstruating women)

The DS is effective for patients with a BMI of > 50 kg/m2. Those with BMI of <45 kg/m2 may lose too much weight. The DS has a higher incidence of complications than other procedures.

Possible Side Effects:

Nausea and vomiting

Severe diarrhea

Ulcers (less often than RNY)

Kidney stones

Heartburn

Bowel obstruction

Stricture

Leak

Nutritional deficiencies (Vitamin A,D,E,K) Loss of too much weight requiring reoperation

Hospital Stay: 3-4 days

Many insurance companies do not cover this procedure.